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Board adopts superintendent performance goals after debate over chronic absenteeism; 3-2 vote
Summary
The governing board approved an addendum to the superintendent's contract linking pay to three annual goals—ACT performance metrics, chronic absenteeism reduction, and FAFSA completion—after a divided discussion and a 3-2 vote.
The Tempe Union High School District governing board approved an addendum to Superintendent Dr. Wilson’s contract tying a portion of performance pay to three annual goals: ACT performance in English, math and science; reductions in chronic absenteeism; and increased FAFSA completion. The measure passed 3-2 after a lengthy discussion on whether absenteeism should remain a superintendent-level performance goal.
Dr. Wilson explained the selection of goals as outcomes from the district retreat and said the measures align with the district’s focus on student learning and postsecondary readiness. “One of our measurements as a district is the measurement used by the state,” Dr. Wilson said, summarizing the first goal on ACT metrics and explaining that FAFSA completion unlocks opportunities for students pursuing postsecondary education or training.
Vice President Steele opposed keeping chronic absenteeism as a superintendent goal, arguing it is a national, multifactor issue—often tied to mental health and community conditions—and advocated instead that the board place a career- and college-readiness (CCRI) goal on the superintendent’s performance plan. Steele said the ACT and FAFSA measures do not accurately reflect historically marginalized students' pathways and outcomes.
Board members who supported retaining chronic absenteeism as a goal said the district has already prioritized attendance work and that keeping the measure elevates districtwide attention to the issue. Amber Gutierrez Miller and others described the addendum as work already underway by the leadership team.
The final vote was 3 in favor and 2 opposed. Board members asked for further study sessions to refine metrics and to ensure the goals are operationally actionable; Dr. Wilson asked that the board allow her to begin work on the goals this school year while the board continues the conversation.
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